Columbus has developed a national reputation for its architecture, which by now is no surprise. The city is home to designs by Kevin Roche, Eero Saarinen and Harry Weese, among other renowned architects.
The American Institute of Architects has ranked the city sixth nationally for architecturally significant buildings.
However, the public art sprinkled around Columbus also adds to the city’s storied support of the arts. One of the most famous pieces here is the Henry Moore’s “Large Arch,” located next to the Bartholomew County Public Library.
The most recent success story is the effort to raise enough money to keep the “Flamenco” statue in downtown Columbus.
“Flamenco,” which sits at Fourth and Washington streets in front of The Commons, came to the city in June 2014 as part of the Columbus Area Arts Council’s Sculpture Biennial. However, the deadline for keeping Chicago artist Ruth Migdal’s sculpture in Columbus permanently was rapidly approaching, and $40,000 was needed to keep it here.
That mission was accomplished entirely with private funds at a May 13 fundraiser that drew about 120 people.
Similarly, more than $35,000 was raised in 2007 to purchase Dessa Kirk’s “Eos” sculpture near the entrance of Mill Race Park.
The fundraiser organizers and supporters who saved “Flamenco” through their efforts are to be commended for a job well done.
Not all communities go to the lengths some supporters have here to ensure that art plays a role in the quality of life.
Having public art in the city adds to its richness and vibrancy, and further makes it a special place to live.
